OLAF’s Work in Times of Crisis
4 June 2020
2018-Max_Planck_Herr_Wahl_1355_black white_Zuschnitt.jpg Thomas Wahl

On 7 April 2020, OLAF informed the public that it is still fully operational and committed to fighting fraud despite the restrictions set up by the Belgian authorities during the Coronavirus crisis. The press release provides some statistical data on OLAF's case work since 16 March 2020. OLAF has also developed specific rules on conducting interviews in times when travelling is not recommended. It points out that the COVID-19 pandemic offers new opportunities for fraudsters to take advantage of the increased demand for medical supplies, personal protection, and hygiene products. In this context, OLAF refers to its successful investigation against fake COVID-19 related products (see separate news item). OLAF investigators and analysts have quickly adapted to the extraordinary situation thanks to secure remote access to OLAF’s IT systems and other working tools.

News Guide

EU Corona OLAF

Author

2018-Max_Planck_Herr_Wahl_1355_black white_Zuschnitt.jpg
Thomas Wahl

Institution:
Max Planck Institute for the Study of Crime, Security and Law (MPI CSL)

Department:
Public Law Department

Position:
Senior Researcher